Oita Art Museum

The Oita Prefectural Art Museum (OPAM, 大分県立美術館, Ōita Kenritsu Bijutsukan) is a must-visit spot in downtown Oita City, just 30 minutes from Beppu. Opened in 2015, it was designed by renowned Japanese architect Ban Shigeru, famous for using materials like cardboard and paper in his innovative creations. The museum’s wooden facade resembles traditional woven bamboo, and its giant glass walls open to blend the indoors with the outdoors. Visitors are welcomed by a spacious atrium with a museum shop and space for large-scale art installations.

Art lovers can explore diverse temporary exhibitions featuring paintings, sculptures, poetry, and performance art. The third floor also houses a modest permanent collection focused on local Oita artists, including Edo Period painter Tanomura Chikuden and modern artists Fukuda Heihachiro and Takayama Tasuo. With its stunning design and rich artistic variety, the museum offers a refreshing cultural experience.